Looking for a classic car that won’t break the bank but still delivers an unforgettable driving experience? This list of 25 affordable classic cars proves that you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy impressive performance. From vintage muscle to underrated European gems, these cars offer the perfect blend of style, speed, and affordability.
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Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA)
The first-generation Miata is lightweight, rear-wheel drive, and offers exceptional balance, making it a go-to choice for driving enthusiasts. With its 1.6L inline-four engine, it’s not about raw power but about handling and fun on winding roads. The Miata is reliable and easy to maintain, making it a practical yet exciting classic.
Datsun 240Z
The Datsun 240Z is a timeless sports car known for its sleek design and impressive performance. Its 2.4L inline-six engine delivers solid power, while its lightweight chassis provides excellent handling. The 240Z is revered for offering a high power-to-weight ratio, making it a classic that still thrills today.
BMW E30 3-Series
The E30 3-Series offers a perfect blend of handling, build quality, and performance. Available with engines ranging from a 1.8L four-cylinder to a 2.5L inline-six, this BMW provides precise steering, a balanced chassis, and rear-wheel drive fun. It’s an affordable entry point into European performance.
Ford Mustang (Fox Body)
The Fox Body Mustang is an American icon, known for its simplicity and potent V8 engines. Affordable and easy to modify, the Mustang delivers raw, old-school muscle car power. With its lightweight body and strong aftermarket support, it’s a budget-friendly performance car with plenty of potential.
Porsche 944
The Porsche 944 features a near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, offering superb handling. Its 2.5L inline-four engine provides plenty of power for an engaging driving experience, while its build quality and heritage add to its allure. The 944 is one of the more affordable ways to experience Porsche performance.
Toyota MR2 (AW11)
The first-generation MR2 is a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car that’s known for its go-kart-like handling. Its 1.6L inline-four engine provides enough power to make the lightweight body feel quick and responsive. The MR2’s unique layout and affordable price make it a standout classic.
Chevrolet Corvette (C4)
The C4 Corvette features a powerful 5.7L V8 engine, offering American muscle performance in a sleek sports car body. Known for its impressive handling and acceleration, the C4 delivers great value for the performance it offers. It’s a classic choice for those seeking raw power at a reasonable price.
Volkswagen Golf GTI (Mk1)
The original hot hatch, the Mk1 GTI, combines practical hatchback versatility with excellent performance. Its 1.6L four-cylinder engine delivers a lively drive, and its lightweight design makes it nimble on corners. The GTI is a beloved classic for its fun-to-drive nature and affordability.
Honda CRX Si
The CRX Si is a lightweight, front-wheel-drive car that delivers an engaging driving experience with its high-revving 1.6L engine. Known for its nimble handling and efficiency, the CRX Si offers a fun, sporty feel while being affordable and practical.
Mazda RX-7 (FB)
The first-gen RX-7 features a rotary engine, which delivers a unique power curve and lightweight performance. With a low curb weight and excellent handling characteristics, the RX-7 is a favorite among driving enthusiasts who appreciate something different under the hood.
Nissan 300ZX (Z31)
The Z31-generation 300ZX offers turbocharged performance in a sleek, aerodynamic body. Its 3.0L V6 engine provides strong acceleration, while its refined suspension gives it sharp handling. The 300ZX is an affordable way to experience turbocharged performance in a classic Japanese sports car.
Fiat 124 Spider
The Fiat 124 Spider is a stylish Italian roadster known for its light handling and smooth ride. Powered by a 1.6L or 2.0L engine, the 124 Spider combines nimble performance with classic Italian design. It’s an affordable convertible that offers a great driving experience.
Pontiac Firebird Trans Am (1970s)
The Firebird Trans Am is pure American muscle, powered by a V8 engine that offers thunderous performance. Its bold design, combined with raw power, makes it an iconic car of the 1970s. Despite its muscle car status, the Trans Am remains affordable for enthusiasts looking for a classic American performance vehicle.
Alfa Romeo Spider
With its Italian styling and responsive handling, the Alfa Romeo Spider is a timeless roadster. Powered by a 2.0L inline-four, the Spider offers lively performance while maintaining a light and agile feel. It’s an affordable way to enjoy open-top motoring with plenty of European charm.
Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16
The 190E 2.3-16 was Mercedes’ answer to BMW’s M3, offering high performance in a well-built sedan. With its 2.3L engine developed by Cosworth, the 190E is a true driver’s car with race-proven credentials. It’s a great value for those seeking performance in a classic luxury sedan.
Saab 900 Turbo
The Saab 900 Turbo is a quirky classic with turbocharged performance. Its 2.0L turbo engine delivers strong acceleration, while its unique design and front-wheel-drive layout make it stand out. Known for its durability and surprising power, the Saab 900 Turbo is an underrated performer.
Toyota Celica GT-S (1970s)
The 1970s Celica GT-S combines sporty looks with reliable performance. Its 2.2L four-cylinder engine delivers adequate power, and its lightweight design provides nimble handling. The Celica GT-S is an affordable classic with a solid reputation for both performance and reliability.
Dodge Charger (1970s)
The Charger is a true muscle car, powered by large V8 engines that deliver exhilarating performance. Its aggressive styling and raw power make it a favorite among classic car enthusiasts. The 1970s Charger remains an affordable entry into the world of classic American muscle.
Jaguar XJ-S
The XJ-S offers grand tourer performance with its smooth V12 engine, providing plenty of power for long-distance cruising. It combines luxury with speed, offering an affordable way to experience a high-performance Jaguar from the 1970s and 80s.
Ford Capri (Mk1)
Often called the “European Mustang,” the Mk1 Ford Capri delivers sporty handling and performance in a compact package. With a range of engines, including a punchy V6, the Capri is an affordable, fun-to-drive classic that’s popular among enthusiasts in Europe.
Chevrolet Camaro (3rd Gen)
The third-generation Camaro delivers classic muscle car styling and performance. With V8 power and a sleek design, the Camaro is an affordable way to experience American muscle with strong aftermarket support for tuning and modifications.
Mitsubishi Starion
The turbocharged Starion offers surprising performance with its 2.6L inline-four engine. Known for its sleek design and rear-wheel-drive layout, the Starion is a hidden gem among Japanese sports cars and remains affordable compared to other classics of its era.
Acura Integra GS-R (DC2)
The Integra GS-R is a high-revving, front-wheel-drive performance car that is loved by enthusiasts for its VTEC engine and precise handling. It’s lightweight, affordable, and provides a great balance of power and agility.
Plymouth Barracuda (1970s)
The Barracuda is another muscle car legend with V8 power and bold styling. Known for its aggressive design and raw performance, the Barracuda is a sought-after classic, but still remains within reach for those looking for affordable American muscle.
Volvo 240 Turbo
Known for its safety and durability, the Volvo 240 Turbo surprises with its turbocharged performance. Its 2.1L turbo engine provides plenty of punch, and its boxy design gives it sleeper status. It’s an affordable, quirky classic that’s fun to drive.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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